Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

4.46

24 reviews

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Michigan DNR site

Get Directions

Quick Facts

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

9 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Not Allowed

Opens Michigan DNR site

Get Directions

Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

Standard Site Fee$0.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Michigan

Provider

(231) 745-9465

What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 24 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietlocationhikingsites

Some mention

noise

"Reviewers praise the peaceful, scenic river setting, good trails, and paddling/fishing access; many call it a hidden gem. Common negatives are its very rustic nature, occasional ATV noise, and basic restroom cleanliness."

Read all reviews

Best Time to Camp at Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

Adventure calls year-round at Lincoln Bridge, though winter visitors should come prepared—seasonal roads and the campground aren't plowed when snow flies, adding an extra layer of backcountry charm (and challenge) to cold-weather camping. Spring brings rushing waters perfect for paddling, summer offers ideal conditions for all activities, and fall paints the hardwood canopy in brilliant colors. Pack for typical northern Lower Michigan weather: layered clothing, rain gear, and flexibility to embrace whatever nature brings.

Spring (Mar-May)

Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.

Best

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.

Fall (Sep-Nov)

Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Off-season, limited services. Check for closures before visiting.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open year-round; campground and seasonal roads are not plowed in winter.

About Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

Escape to Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground, where nine intimate walk-in tent sites nestle among towering hardwoods and whispering pines along the pristine Pine River (Little Manistee River). This rustic retreat keeps things beautifully simple—vault toilets, hand-pumped water, and a short 20-50 yard stroll from your vehicle to your private woodland site. Whether you're launching a kayak into the clear river waters, casting a line, or exploring miles of forest trails by foot or bike, you'll find the perfect balance of solitude and adventure.

Rustic, walk-in tent-only state forest campground with nine walk-in sites (20–50 yards from parking); first-come, first-served.

Weather and SeasonsAdventure calls year-round at Lincoln Bridge, though winter visitors should come prepared—seasonal roads and the campground aren't plowed when snow flies, adding an extra layer of backcountry charm (and challenge) to cold-weather camping. Spring brings rushing waters perfect for paddling, summer offers ideal conditions for all activities, and fall paints the hardwood canopy in brilliant colors. Pack for typical northern Lower Michigan weather: layered clothing, rain gear, and flexibility to embrace whatever nature brings.

Natural Features and SceneryYour campsite awaits on a peaceful wooded ridge above the river, where mixed hardwoods and fragrant pines create a natural canopy overhead. The sandy forest floor and spreading layout ensure each site feels like your own private sanctuary. Below, the narrow Pine River (Little Manistee River) flows clear and inviting, easily accessible via short trails that wind down to the banks. A gentle carry brings your canoe or kayak to the water's edge, while Silver Creek meanders nearby. The surrounding pathways beckon hikers and mountain bikers to explore deeper into this quiet corner of Michigan's state forest.

Geological RegionNorthern Lower Michigan state forest (mixed hardwood and pine, sandy soils) along the Pine River/Little Manistee River corridor.

Campsite details

Total Campsites9 campsites

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Stay Limit

15-day maximum stay

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive are allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; campground and seasonal roads are not plowed in winter.

Reservation PlatformsMIDNRReservations.com

Amenities available

Potable water

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Outdoor recreation centered on river access and trails: paddling and fishing on the Pine River/Little Manistee, hiking and mountain biking on nearby pathways, plus ORV/snowmobile trail access and seasonal hunting.

Hiking

Trail access from the campground (Silver Creek Pathway / nearby Manistee trail network) for hiking.

Fishing

Fishing on the Pine River/ Silver Creek; brown and rainbow trout are reported in the river.

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Campground rules

Pets are not allowed

Hazards

General hazardsPeriodic ATV noise from nearby trails (campground is popular with ORV/ATV users). River-related hazards for paddling (check river levels and conditions). Winter access hazards due to unplowed roads. No documented cell coverage information.

Weather at Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

°F

Dec 26

Friday

Overcast

Precipitation: 0%

Humidity: 68%

Wind: 15.8 mph

Overcast

Weather History

Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Detailed 7-Day Forecast

Reveal forecast

Good to know

Common complaintsRustic facilities (vault toilets; at least one review mentions unclean bathrooms), walk-in-only sites may not suit all campers, and ATV noise can be noticeable at times.

Campground Map

Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground

Driving directionsLocated in Lake County, seven miles north of Luther via State Road and 10 Mile Road.

Access via State Road and 10 Mile Road; parking spur with short walks (20–50 yards) to walk-in sites.

Nearby places

Luther: 7 miles

Reviews from booking and map sources

4.5

24 reviews

Recommended

Lincoln Bridge State Forest Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviewers praise the peaceful, scenic river setting, good trails, and paddling/fishing access; many call it a hidden gem. Common negatives are its very rustic nature, occasional ATV noise, and basic restroom cleanliness.

Review Summaries

Based on 24 reviews

What Campers Love

Scenic, quiet riverfront location; excellent hiking and mountain-biking trails nearby; easy carry-in kayak/canoe access and good trout fishing; feel of secluded, tree‑tucked walk‑in sites.

Based on 24 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring everything you need and be prepared to carry gear 20–50 yards to sites (wagons/backpacks help). Arrive early during trout season or busy weekends—sites are first-come, first-served. Expect a...

Based on 24 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Nice peaceful spot along the river with trails to hike."; "Very rustic walk in sites. Popular place for ATVs. Bit noisy at times."; "2 words….hidden gem."; "Great hiking area... Caught a few...

Based on 24 reviews